Pilbara WA | March 2019
What is your business? How long has the business been operating?
We purchased a prime mover and have been operating for almost 2 years.
What were you doing before you made contact with Many Rivers?
I was a professional artist for over 20 years. But I had to take over the care of my grandkids and I am the only one with a license. I have to drive them to and from school and run the house. I had to put my art to the side whilst I concentrate on running the business and the house.
Who referred you to Many Rivers? When?
I heard about Many Rivers through the community. I attended workshops and as a member of IBN I was recommended to reach out to Many Rivers. Ariel has been a huge help. His help and advice are invaluable. He helped break everything down for me, reassures me that I am heading in the right direction.
Why did you want to go into business?
My husband has been working in the Pilbara for 5 years. And had the idea of going out on our own. It allows me to work from home while I care for my grandchildren and run the house.
What did you find the most useful about the assistance from Many Rivers?
Ariel helped me with fine tuning my business plan and my grant applications. He has a lot of knowledge and he helps me by alleviating my stress. He acts like a mentor. Ariel is a big angel, thanks.
Do you have any current employees?
No but we subcontract out to Aboriginal businesses. It’s important we support fellow countrymen.
What has been the biggest challenge to date?
We have had a few challenges with the motor blowing up and the cost of repairs adding up. It has been challenging chasing up payments. We don’t get payments in a timely manner making it hard to pay all the bills at times.
Having my husband away for 2 to 3 months at a time has been challenging too. I’m raising my grandkids as my kids are going through domestic violence issues but I just get on with it and manage it all whilst managing the business.
What has been the biggest success to date?
I’m doing a good job running this business. I’ve been successful in getting a grant and am confident I’ll get another in the future. I manage to refinance all our debts and got better rates. We have paid off our car.
What do you hope to achieve in the future?
To be debt free and creating art again. I have all my art gear set up in my studio so one day I must get back to it. And I want to see a bit of the country with my girlfriends.
What advice do you have for anyone wanting to start their own business?
Life’s too short, give it a go. Life is full of challenges but don’t be afraid. There is always someone there who likes to help. Don’t be scared of reaching out of that support.
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